HOW TO USE AND TAKE

CARE OF YOUR NEW • •• • •••

TOWER CAMERAS ARE SOLD ONLY BY SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO . INTRODUCTION

Your TOWER 35 mm Type III Camera is a precision instrument. Sears laboratory technicians and buyers have worked with the manufacturers on this camera for more than a year and a half before offering it to you. It is a camera that 'will last a lifetime, if treated properly

This booklet gives detailed, but simple instructions on its use and proper care. READ BOOKLET CAREFULLY, and keep it handy for reference.

2 We have written this manual in more detail and more technically than is necessary for the ordinary amateur photographe;-. However, after th e amateur has progressed a little in photography, his curiosity will lead him into more advanced stages and the following detailed information is an attempt on our part to anticipate a few of his questions. On the page to the right, we have canden ed th e steps to be taken when ad­ justing camera for picture taking. This is all the beginner needs to know Even the advanced amateur may fi nd it well to memorize these steps ,1l1d review them occasionally

NOTE . The keyed illustration (A) above is frequently referred to throughout the following pages. For that reason, the manual is bound so that you may leave this page open for handy reference.

3 1 Remove lens cap from lens a 2. If lens is collapsible type, pull out simple step which is often overlooked. and lock it in position. Make sure it is firmly locked.

3. Set lens diaphragm to aperture in­ 4 . Focus lens with rangefinder. Bot dicated by exposure' meter or tab!e. images should be superimposed so tho a single image is seen.

S. Compose the subject in viewfinder 6. Turn winding knob in direction of Do it carefully. Good composition is a rrow as far as it will go. important.

7 Set shutter speed dial according to 8. Press shutter release button to ex­ exposure meter readings or exposure pose film . Press button with finger onl table recommendations. not the entire ll rm . 4 TABLE OF CONTENTS

7 Changing lens page 8. Viewfinder page 9. Explanation of Aperture Adjustment page 10. Explanation of Aperture Scale page 11 Aperture Diaphragm Adjustment page 12. Distance Scale on Focusing Ring page 13. Depth of Field Scale page 14. loading the Camera page 15. Unloading the Camera page 16. Release Button for Shutter page

TOWER Camera Carrying Case page 35 TOWER lens Shade and Filter Holder page 36 Additional Accessories page 36 Repair Service page 36 Owner's Guarantee page 37

5 WINDING KN OB SPECIAL NOTE

This 35 mm. camera is the first camera in the TOWER line to have shutter speeds that must be set AFTER the shutter has been com­ pletely wound. As you wind the shutter, the film is automatically advanced (Illust. B) There is a top, or main shutter speed dial, that shows shutter speeds or exposure figures from 1/ 20 to 1/ 500 of a second. The lower speed dial (Illust. C) has speeds from 1/ 20 to Time. 1. USE OF UPPER AND LOW£R SPEED DIALS When using lower speed dial on front of camera, the upper speed dial must be placed on "RED 20-1" which is neutral position, AFTER SHUTTER HAS BEEN COMPLETELY WOUND. When upper speed dial is on neutral position (Red 20-1) opposite arrow, then you can bring the lower speed dial into play Numbers on speed dials indicate fractions of a second. For example, 4 means Y4 of a second, 2 means Yz second, etc. INTERMEDIATE SPEEDS CANNOT BE USED. When setting the speed on Bulb (B) on upper dial (Illust. C) the shutter remains open while the release button is pressed down. When the release button is released, the shutter springs shut.

When camera is operated with slow speed dial set on Time (T) , the shutter opens when the release button is pressed and re­ mains open. To close shutter, turn slow speed dial back to position 1, and the shutter will close immediately There's no need to press the release button again to close shutter.

6 IMPORTANT:

To operate shutter on 1/20 of a second, it is necessary to set both dials on RED 20 after you have wound shutter. The upper main dial is moved to various positions after shutter has been completely wound by merely lifting the dial (Illust. D) and turning it so number indicating the desired speed is opposite ar­ row on accessory shoe. (Illust. B.) Be sure upper dial is lowered or seated into proper position when operating on any shutter speed.

LOWER SPEED DIAL CAN BE TURNED AFTER SHUTTER HAS BEEN COMPLETELY WOUND AN D UPPER SPEED DIAL HAS BEEN SET ON RED 20-1 (llLU ST E).

2. WINDING SHUTTER AND FILM- To wind shutter and wind film, turn winding knob in direction indi­ cated by arrow until it stops. By turning this knob until it reaches a stop position, the film is advanced for the next exposure, thus preventing any possibility of a double exposure. Knob serves dual purpose, as it also winds shutter spring. CAUTION: Always wind shutter just prior to taking picture. Never leave camera in a wound position, this may weaken shutter spring, or you might accidentally press release button and ex­ pose film. 3. EXPOSURE COUNTER MECHANISM-

The numbered disc just beneath the winding knob (Illust. F) is the exposure counter which automati­ cally records number of exposures. The counter should be set at "0" after camera h as been loaded with new fi lm and the shutter fully wound. This disc is turned in a clockwise direction by two raised lugs. If d isc is accidentally pushed beyond '0", continue to push it on around a second time until "0" lines up with small arrow Do not attempt to turn this di sc in a co unter-clock wise direc tion.

EXAMPLE

After film has been loaded into camera (See pages 18-20), the winding knob should be turned once around in direc tion of arrow until it stops. Shutter release button should then be pressed to release shutter. Once more, give the winding knob one full turn to the stopped position. This winds sufficient film off the full cartridge and on to the take-up spool so that the portion of film accidentally exposed to light during the loading process will not be re-exposed as an attempted picture. Thus, it will prevent fogged p ictures at the beginning of fi lm. The numbered disc should then be set so the "0" on disc is opposite small arrow (Illust. F) Shutter release button should again be pressed, and the next time the winding knob is turned into position it will automatically advance film and bring disc to a stop on number one on co unting disc. This indicates you are ready to take your fi rst picture.

8 4. COUPLED RANGEFINDER

Your TOWER 35 mm camera has a coupled rangefinder It is coupled with a helical type Len s out focusing mount on the lens barrel. When the of focus lens barrel is turned by depressing knob on a focusing lever (Illust. A) and shifting lever in either direction, barrel automaticall y turns on a threaded track and moves forward or backward. Accordingly, the rangefinder is automatically put

Correct focus b

into operation. The rangefinder on the TOWER 35 mm camera is the superimposed image type and absolute focus is obtained when 2 images are superimposed upon each other and become fused into a single image (Illust. G-b) The double image effect is produced by means of micrometer movement of the fine mechanism ind icated in Illust. GG. The small arm in this instance is set against the inner base of the lens barrel. As the lens barrel is rotated and thereby moved backward or forward, the leveling devices adjust the mirror to such a precision degree that when the 2 images are fused , the lens is in per­ fect focus. Note especially that all longer focal length lenses are inter­ changeable with TOWER, Nicca, and most Leica cameras which have coupled built-in rangefinders.

The rangefinder eye-piece is constructed with a miniature telescope hav­ ing a magnification of approximately 1 Yz times. This increases the accu­ racy and ease of focusing your TOWER 35 111m camera. The viewing

9 aperture of the eye-piece on the rangefinder i adjusted by turning the small rotating "eyebrow rest" (Illust. J) on eye-piece. This com­ pensates for slight difference in the human eye and facilitate the foru - ing on near or di tant object to pro­ duce the greatest possible harpness. RANGEFINDER VIEWFINDER

5. PRACTICE IN USE OF RANGEFINDER-

Place camera in position for picture taking (Illust. K) and sight through the rangefinder (left) eye-piece and, at the same time, cover the left rangefinder window (Illust. A) with the middle finger. In this case, you will observe only a small circular field of a pinkish cast in which only what you are focusing on will be visible. Be sure that your eye is actually centered behind rangefinder eye-piece so that you can get a complete circular field of the image. This position being assumed, you may now ad just the lens focusing lever to obtain the greatest possible sharpness. Keep object in center of fi eld, then remove your finger from left window of rangefinder. You will then see a double image of the object in a much larger circular field (Illust. G-a) Now turn focusing lever until the two images are fused into one (Illust. G-b) At this point your lens is in correct focus. Practice this exercise until it becomes auto­ matic and there is no need of placing finger over the left rangefinder win­ dow CAUTION! Do not conftlse rangefmder window (left) with reg­ IdaI' viewfinder window (right) (I!­ ltlst. 1)

10 6. THE NIKKOR 50 mm f /2 LENS-

The early TOWER 35 mm camera is equipped with the f/ 2 50 mm lens, of the collapsible type (Illust. L) The 50 mm lenses of the Leica, Nicca and TO\'{fER cameras with coupled rangefinders are mostly interchangeable. Before taking a pic­ ture with the TOWER 35 mm ca mera it is quite obvious that the lens cap should be removed. Next pull out lens, grasping only front knurled ring (Illust. L) Take ca re that only the FRONT KNURLED RING is gripped between the fingers . Do not make a mistake and grip the second knurled ring which serves to adjust the aperture. Thi second ring is used to adjust the delicate aperture within the lens, and if the lens barrel were to be pulled out by second ring, and given a sharp hard turn clockwise into locking position, it might damage the delicate metal leaves in the iris diaphragm within the lens. Lock the lens into position by turning it in a clockwise direction until it stops. This brings the small flanges into the grooves inside the lens mount. To push lens back into camera body, simply take hold of outer knurled ring and turn in a COUNTER-clockwise direction. This disengages flanges from grooves in base of lens mount. Then simply shove lens back into body of camera.

When lens is not in use it should be collapsed into its mount and the lens cap placed on its front. The lens focusing lever should also be locked at the infinity position (00) by press­ ing knob on end of lever, which permits shifting lever into locked position. Long focal length lenses such as the 85 111m and 13 5 mm (so-called "telephoto" lenses), are focused by means of the knurled ring and are non-collapsible. There is no lens focus­ ing lever on these lenses. (See pages 29-30.)

11 NOTE ESPECIALLY: Present model TOWER cameras are equipped with the non-collapsible type lens (Illust. M) In this case there is noth- ing to pull out. Simply take the lens cap off before taking picture.

The non-collapsible lenses focus as close as 1 Yz feet. The rangefinder, however, does not operate for distances less than 3 Yz feet, so any pic­ tures taken at less than 3 Yz feet will have to be measured with a tape from camera to subject, and the corresponding distance set on distance scale with focusing lever.

When measuring such short distances, always measure from subject to camera back, not to front of lens. Accurate measurement is extremely important on close-up work, because the depth of field is so small.

NOTE: All NIKKOR lenses are of the highest quality optical glass and the very best workmanship has been expended to produce a precision ground, highly polished lens. However, in the manufacturing and assembling of the lens occasionally a small speck or bubble will appear on the inner surfaces of the glass. These markings are sometimes mis­ taken as blemishes, but they are simply the characteristics of high grade lenses and will not adversely affect picture quality The slightly blue coating of the lens is not always uniformly deposited over the glass surface. Again, this is not a defect, but a characteristic of fluoride lens coating.

7 . CHANGING LENS-The flange on the TOWER 35 mm camera facilitates rapid interchange of lenses of various focal lengths, and insures absolute accuracy A lens is simply screwed firmly into po-

12 sition by turning the entire mount in a clockwise direc­ tion. When inserting lens or removing it, be sure lens is gripped at the base of the lens mount adjacent to camera body (Illust. N) When removing lens, it is well to turn focusing lever in a counter-clockwise di­ rection until it stops. This gives you a firm grip on the lens mount and permits ease in removal of lens. On the other hand, when inserting lens, the rangefinder lever should be turned in a clockwise direction until it stops. This again will give you a firm grip at the base of the lens so that the lens can be turned into position. The helical focusing type mount will automatically couple with the rangefi nder mechanism when lens is seated in proper position. Hold camera by left hand when changing lenses. Grip the lens as described above with the right hand, and loosen it in the flange by a slight quick jerk in a COUNTER-clockwise direction. Then simply unscrew lens. Do likewise when screwing lens into body of camera. Focusing lever must be in the infinity position before lens is screwed into the flange.

NOTE ESPECIALLY: When changing lenses, the opening into the camera body with the lens removed should not be exposed to a strong light. It is advisable to hold the camera in subdued light or against the body during time lens is out of the camera, if the camera is loaded.

13 8. VIEWFINDER-

The built-in viewfinder is an optically ground, direct-vision type of finder and shows the approximate field covered by the lens of the ordinary 50 mm standard focal length lens. Be sure to hold it le\·el with the eye. If one were to look on a bias through the viewfinder window, it might not show the entire picture desired. There­ fore, you must be sure that you bring your eye as close to the viewfinder as possible. (Len es of longer or horter focal lengths available for the TOWER 35 mm camera require the use of the Universal Vi ewfinder, which fits into the accessory shoe on top of camera (See page 31)

9. EXPLANATION OF APERTURE DIAPHRAGM

A camera lens is very similar to the human eye. When the eye is used in a dark room the pupil becomes enlarged to admit more light. When in a lighter area, the pupil becomes small. It varies according to the intensity of light reaching the eye. The camera lens has no such auto­ matic muscular system, and, as a result, it must be mechanically ad­ justed according to the intensity of light on the object to be photo­ graphed. This opening or closing of the so-called "pupil" or "iris dia­ phragm" of the lens is adjusted by the use of a knurled ring (Illust. A- Aperture Adjustment Ring)

10. EXPLANATION OF APERTURE SCALE-

The figures between the frontal knurled ring and the second knurled ring pertain to the iris di aphragm within the lens barrel (Illust. A) They represent the relative aperture openings and regulate the amount of light to be admitted according to the intensity of the light on the subject to be photographed. In the case of the f/2 lens the figures are as follows-f/2 indicates that the lens is wide open, f/2 8, f/4, f!S.6, f/ 8, f/ 11 and f/ 16 represent the remaining openings. The f!16 is the smallest possible opening with the f /2 lens. You should always remem­ ber that the size of the aperture varies in indirect proportion to the size of the number. For example, f /2 is the smallest number, but represents the widest lens aperature on the 50 mm f /2 lens . Conversely f / 16 re­ duces the lens aperture to the smallest possible opening.

14 11. APERTURE DIAPHRAGM ADJUSTMENT-

The proper opening or setting of the lens aperture can be determined by use of an exposure meter. It is well to remember that the smaller the aperture, the longer the exposure. In other words, if the aper­ ture is stopped down to the next highest figure, the time of ex­ posure must be practically doubled. For example, if the exposure meter indicates an exposure time of 1/ 60 of a second with f/ 5.6 aper­ ture opening, the time must be doubled if the diaphragm is stopped down to f /8. This means that the shutter speed dial would then be set on 1/ 30 of a second, which gives a longer time of exposure than 1/ 60 of a second. If a moving object is to be photographed, it is quite obvious that you would select a short exposure time in order to stop the object in motion. This would mean opening the lens to admit more light during a shorter exposure period. If, on the other hand, you have a still object and there is no need for a fast shutter speed, you can then stop down your diaphragm slightly and increase the time of exposure. As mentioned on page 6, shutter speeds other than lhose marked on speed dials should not be attempted.

Note that TOWER cameras are engraved with the European system of markings for aperture and shutter speeds and, in many instances, exposure meters are not marked to be used with this system. However, the new TOWER meter is marked to be used with either the American or European system. According to the exposure meter being used, a setting of f/ 2 may be required on Hie iris diaphragm of the TOWER 35 mm camera. At the same time, the exposure time may be indicated as 1/ 480 of a second. In this case you should set the shutter at 1/ 500 of a second because there is no method by which we can set the shutter at 1/ 480 of a second. In all instances, there is enough leeway in the film to accommodate these small discrepancies. If, on the other hand, your exposure meter indicates that you set the time at 1/25 of a second, you can also set your TOWER 35 mm camera at 1/ 20 of a second and be perfectly safe in securing the proper exposure. The differences are not great enough to make any appreciable difference in exposures.

15 12. DISTANCE SCALE ON FOCUSING RING- When the 2 images are brought together by turning the len focusing lever to the proper posi­ cion. you can then read the distance scale in feec as indicated on focusing ring on fla nge (Illust. P)

The letter R indicates the position at which focusing should be set when using an infra red film . In other words, if you happen to bring the lens into focus and th e distance scale indicates that you are 10 feet away, you should th e n move the focusing lever so as to set the 10 foot mark opposite R. The lens is then in focus when using infra red film . To repeat, the lens is focused in the usual manner and the helical mount is then turned until the index R points to that position on the distance scale which was indicated in the first place by the main index.

13. DEPTH OF FIELD SCALE-The range of sharpness of any lens is called the depth of field and depends on the relative aper­ ture setting and the distance to the subject on which the lens is focused . The depth of field actually indicates maximum sharpness obtainable in a certain plane at a distance from the subject photographed. This plane covers a certain distance in front of the subject and a certain distance behind the subject. Within these areas objects are in focus. The smaller the aperture being used, the greater the depth of field . In other words, wi th a small aperture things become sharp far beyond the subject on which the lens is focused, whereas the larger the aperture the smaller the depth of field and things become diffused and out of foc us beyond the subject.

In order to determine just what is in sharp focus within the depth of field range at a given lens aperture and distance, a special scale is

16 engraved on the base of the lens mount (Illust. P) Note that the lens aperture scale in the case of the 50 mm f/ 2 lens is engraved on both sides of the main index (small black triangle) In this case, it would be calibrated from f/ 2 to f/ 16. Through the use of this scale, one can then determine the distance in front and behind the subject on which lens is actually focused to obtain sufficiently sharp focus. If the aperture is set at f/ 4 at a distance of 6 feet, the scale indicates the depth of field which ranges from approximately 5Vz feet to about 6% feet. This indicates there is a very short depth of field when the lens is open at f/ 4 and you are relatively close to the subject on which you are focusing. On the other hand, when the lens is stopped down to f / 11 and focused on a subject 15 feet away all objects within the range of approximately 9 feet from the camera to about 45 feet are within focus. If we were to focus the lens on a subject 15 feet away with the smallest aperture possible of f/ 16, the'n the objects within the range of approximately 8 feet to almost infinity would be in focus.

When taking landscapes or distance shots, merely set the camera on infinity and stop the lens down to as fine an aperture as possible, light permitting, and you will find that practically everything from 8 feet to infinity will be in focus. This latter setting is most universally used when as large a foreground as possible is to be included in a landscape.

Bear in mind, especially, that the maximum sharpness obtainable lies in a plane at the distance to which the focused lens has been set. There­ fore, for a distance shot of a statue or house when the foreground can be neglected, the focusing scale for all practical purposes should al­ ways be set on infinity This simplifies the use of the TOWER 35 mm camera because, for all mountain scenes, you can lock your camera at infinity and shoot all day, adjusting only the aperture and shutter speed according to the light values as registered by your exposure meter. For the beginner, we advise that he worry very little about the depth of field scale. Let it suffice to say that the aim of the first "picture taking" should be merely satisfactory results.

17 NOTE: For landscapes and similar objects the camera should be stopped down to f/ 5.6 or f/ 8 with lens at infinity. Of course, this is also to be governed again by the light values as indicated on ex­ posure meter For candid snapshots, stop down to f/5.6 and focus to the most important part of the subject, and for portraits try to use as large an aperture as possible and focus around the eyes of the indi­ vidual being photographed.

14. LOADING THE CAMERA- Always load camera in subdued light. However, with magazine or cartridge type loading, * such as is used in the TOWER 35 mm camera, one can load it in normal room light. Follow these steps Be sure to set the reversing lever on A (Advance) Illust. R. While camera is still empty, turn winding knob to stop and press shutter release. 2. Place camera on pad, newspaper, or Sears catalog to give it cush­ ioning. Never place your camera on a hard surface when working with it. Place camera UPSIDE DOWN, with lens facing away from you. 3. Open camera by picking up lock lever (Illust. S) on base plate and turning from S (shut) to 0 (open) Then lift the base plate off (Illust. T) In some instances, the bottom will be very tight and a stiff pull will be necessary to remove it.

*NOTE:The 35 mm mag­ azines that are now on the market hold a strip of film which is adequate for the taking of 36 exposures or 20 exposures, 24x36mm PI in size. 18 4. Withdraw take-up spool (Illust. U) from open camera. Hold this spool in left hand and loaded fi lm magazine in right hand. Be sure knurled knob on take-up spool, and the center tube on magazine are point­ ed downward (Illust. V) Insert end of the film under spring on take-up spool. Push it under spring as far as possible. Perforated edge of film should lie flush with flange of spool adjacent to knurled knob. Do not attempt to wind film around core of take-up spool.

5. When fi lm is secure under spring, draw it out of the magazine not more than 2 perforations behind the trim­ med edge. Do not pull the fi lm out of the cartridge any further than is indicated in Illust. W

6. Hold take-up spool and K N U R LED K NOB magazine as in Illust. X, and lower them into camera, making sure fi lm settles into slot along back of camera. Do not use any force. If cartridge does not seat readily, turn rewind knob (Illust. A) slightly so prongs will fit into base of cartridge. 7 While the bottom plate is still off. It i always ad­ visable to \\ ind film by turnin winding knob be­ fore rep l acing bottom. !fake one fu ll turn. mak­ ing sure cog- en age cor­ rectly in perforation of film (Illust. Y ) Pre s re- lease button to release shutter. If the small cogs mesh in the perfora­ tions, you are ready to replace plate.

8. Replace bottom of camera by hooking it over pin on end of camera adjacent to take-up spool (Illust. T) and closing it down. Turn lock­ ing mechanism tc? S (shut)

9. Turn winding knob one full turn after bottom has been closed. Press release button. Again turn winding knob one full stop. Then set counter to "0" Press release button , your camera is now ready for use. When the winding knob is again turned to cock shutter and advance film, you will notice that the counter disc stops on No.1, and you are ready to take your first picture.

As you turn winding knob, note especially that the rewind knob turns in a counter-clockwise direction, this will be in an opposite direc­ tion to arrow on rewind knob. If the winding knob fails to turn, or if you hear any crunching within camera, stop immediately and turn small reverse lever (Illust. A) from A to R, then rewind fi lm, open base plate, remove film cartridge and reload camera.

20 CAUTION: Note that while you turn the rewind knob in the direc­ tion as indicated by the arrow, the collar around the releate button turns. This indicates that the perforations of the film are engaged with the small cogs (Il1ust. Y). Continue to rewind until a slight pressure is felt. Turn past this and a slight jerk will be the effect as the film is pulled out from under the spring (1IIust. V). Immediately after this jerk­ like feeling has occurred, the collar will cease to turn. DO NOT CON­ TINUE TO TURN THE REWIND KNOB IN THIS CASE, BECAUSE YOU MIGHT PULL THE FILM RIGHT ON INTO THE CARTRIDGE. In order to re-Ioad camera, the end of film must protrude enough to be able to get a hold on it to re-Ioad it on to take-up spool.

1 5. UNLOADING THE CAMERA

Turn winding knob for your last exposure very cautiously so film will not be forced out of cartridge. If film happens to be forced out, camera must be taken into the darkroom, or you should take it to a local camera shop and have them remove the exposed film and replace it into its cartridge. When the roll is exposed and it is necessary to rewind it into cartridge, be sure speed dials are set on any other speed than T (Time) If camera is set on T the shutter may remain open and, as the film is rewound it will be re-exposed to light and spoil­ ed by fogging.

Push reverse lever from A (Advance) to R (Reverse) Be sure lever is pushed all the way to R. This will automat­ ically uncouple film advance mechanism and shutter gears.

2. Pull up rewind knob (Illust. Z) and turn in direction of arrow to rewind film into its cartridge. Continue to turn this

21 knob until a Ii ht pressure is felt and then turn past this slight pres­ sure umil rou feel end of film pull out from under spring of take-up spool. TO e [hac " 'hile the rewind knob is being turned, the collar around [he depre ed relea e button continues to turn. When this ceases to turn. you -now [hat onl)' a small portion of film remains to be wound back imo magazine. Gi,'e [he knob 2 or 3 more turns so that the film is comple[ely "ound back II1W i[ magazine.

3, Open [he camera a- alread~- explained ( Illust. T)

4. Pull out the film magazine (Illust. AA) by firmly grasping center tube in thumb and finger Protect the loaded magazine from direct light by replacing in container supplied with film .

16. RELEASE BUTTON FOR SHUTTER- It is advisable to hold camera steady with both hands as illus­ trated in Illust. BB. Rest camera firmly against cheek and hold it in both hands so right index finger is ready to press release but- ton. Left index finger should be on knob of lens focusing lever. Release the button by gently pressing the finger, not the entire hand or arm. The secret of clear, sharp, crisp pictures is to avoid movement or shifting of camera at lime shutter is released. It is further suggested that a deep breath be taken and held while releasing but­ ton. This eliminates any possible movement caused by breathing.

22 17. HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL PICTURES- Two forms of pictures can be taken with the TOWER 3S mm camera. A horizontal exposure is taken when camera is held as in Illust. BB. The exposure is verti­ cal when camera is held as in Illust. Cc. The right hand should always help support the camera and, at the same time, the right in­ dex finger should be in a position to operate the release button. Either the middle or the index finger of the left hand should al- ways operate the focusing lever. Holding the TOWER 3S mm as described above permits a very rapid change from horizontal to vertical pictures, and vice versa. It also establishes a habit for picture tak- ing because the same set of fingers are used to operate the release but­ ton and/ or focusing lever in either horizontal or vertical position. Holding the camera in readiness as in Illust. DD while directing or surveying the subject makes it possible to quickly raise the cam­ era to the proper taking position either horizontally or vertically, with the fingers always in the same position.

23 ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR

______*TOUJfR.cG~~~ -~_~______

35 mm CAMERA

SUPPLEMENTARY LENSES There are a number of accessories available for your new TOWER 35 mm Camera. One of the most unique features in the versatility of this camera is the fact that the lenses are interchangeable. The lens es are all standardized and many of the famous Leica lenses will fit the TOWER 35 mm camera, and the NIKKOR lenses will fit many of the Leica cameras.

The interchange of a lens is done easily All you have to do is screw the lens approximately 2% turns in the flange on the camera. The lens should fit moderately tight to bring it into proper position. When changing lenses, the open camera body should be protected from strong sunlight.

All of the NIKKOR lenses for use with the TOWER 35 mm camera are equipped to couple with the rangefinder. The same principle is used for the telephoto or wide angle lenses as is used with the standard 50 mm lenses (Illust. 1) * Thus, the regular rangefinder is used for all NIKKOR lenses. All NIKKOR accessory lenses come in beautiful, russet-brown plush lined carrying cases (Illust. 2)

*NOTE: On the telephoto lenses focusing is done by turning the knurled focusing ring_ There is no focusing lever, as is the case with the standard 50 mm and wide angle lenses.

24 All NIKKOR lenses are coated on the inside only It is believed the coating of inside surface only will help prevent scratches. It is evident that if the front element or outside of the lens were coated, this coating would be more sub­ ject to scratches than the hard, uncoated outside surface. The coating can be rec­ ognized in ordinary light by its reddish­ to-blue cast. This coating is fused to the surface of the lens wh ile under a vacuum.

The coating reduces loss of light due to surface reflection. It has been found that an uncoated lens has a Light loss of 30 to 35% because of surface reflection, whereas this light loss is reduced to less than 10% in the case of the NIKKOR coated lens. An uncoated lens has a tend­ ency to scatter the light by internal reflections. This impairs the con­ trast of the image on the negative. Thus, the coated NIKKOR lenses will produce a more brilliant negative than the uncoated lenses of the same construction.

NIKKOR lenses have been rated by famous technicians as being as good as any ever pro­ duced by any lens maker in the world. They are rated so high that lead­ ing magazine photog­ raphers on the Korean front discarded their other lenses and are using NIKKOR lenses. CARE OF NIKKOR LENSES

The e lense . like all high quality optical glass, are susceptible to in­ flu ences of moi ture and, of course, should not be touched with the finger. alt from perspiration on fingers not only smears, but has a tendency to corrode the surface. \'<7hen not in use, the lens should be covered with it len cap. In the case of demounted lenses, the lens cap for both from and or rear must be replaced on lens to avoid collection of dIrt and du-r. Alway keep len in its carrying case when lens is detached from camera. Dirt, dust or finger marks must be removed with the greatest care. Remove any dust by wiping lightly with lens tissue.

FOCAL LENGTH OF A LENS

It is well to remember that the depth of field of a well-corrected, high speed 50 mm lens at full aperture is comparatively small. As a result, stopping down to increase the depth of field is often necessary The higher power of these ultra speed lenses should be considered as a reserve to be used only for adverse lighting conditions. One should avoid the use of full aperture unless the depth of field is taken into consideration. If you want to photograph a rose and cause the stem, leaves or back petals to become soft or slightly out of focus, the lens at full aperture is ideal. The same is true in portrait photography The features of the person might be needle sharp when the high speed lens, for instance the 50 mm f/ 1.4, is wide open. However, at this opening, the ears and hair might well be out of focus. This is often desirable in portrait photography

The 50 111m lens is called the standard focal length for the TOWER 35 111m camera. A long focal length lens is popularly termed a tele­ photo lens. For instance, the 135 111m. lens makes the image appear closer and larger. At the same time, it cuts down on the size of the field covered by the normal 50 111m lens. (See photos at right.)

These illustrations show what the camera taking lens actually sees. With the wide-angle 35 111m lens the angle is much greater than with

26 ,he normal 50 mm lens. On the other hand, the angle is much smaller in the case of the 135 111m lens than it is in the case of the 50 mm lens. The 13 5 111m telephoto lens covers a small­ er field, bu t makes the object larger. (For example the clock tower fills WIDE ANCLE 35 mm LENS the frame of the picture more com­ pletely than it does when the same photo is made with the 50 111m lens.) For rapid calculation, divide the focal length of the standard 50 mm lens into the focal length of the lens being compared. All distances from camera to subject remaining equal, the result will give a rough estimate of the power of the lens as compared with the 50 111m lens. For example, as in the case of the 135 111m lens, divide the 50 into 135 and you get 2.7 This means that the image will be 2.7 times larger when taken with the 135 111m lens. For all practical purposes, we say that the 13 5 111m lens gi ves an image 3 times that of the 50 111m lens. The same is true for the 85 mm lens, TelEPHOTO 85 mm LENS although it produces an image 1 7 times larger (85 divided by 50) For all general purposes, it is said to pro­ duce an image 2 times larger than the 50 mm. If the telephoto lens were 100 mm the image would then be ex­ actl y 2 times larger.

Photos by George Polls TELEPHOTO 135 mm LENS 27 NIKKOR 50 mm f /2 LENS The IKKOR f /2 coated standard six-element SO mm lens ca n be used for most general pur­ poses. This includes general outdoor pictures, inside shots taken with photofloods or flash­ uns, press work and color pictures indoors or exceptional quality is the e\'enness of light distribution oyer the film frame. The production of brilliant, cri p negJtlYe- with needle-sharp images is due to the non-scatterin of light, and its highly, precision-ground lens elements. The lens produces the proper tones wherever contrast and brilliance are needed. This lens comes in two types, the collapsible (Illust. 3), and the more recent non-collapsible (Illust. 4) The non-col­ lapsible lens focuses down to 18 inches. (See special note, page 12 on focusing at distances less than 3Y2 feet.)

NIKKOR 50 mm f/1.4 HIGH SPEED LENS

The new NIKKOR f / 1.4 coated SO mm lens (Illust. 5) is the latest lens added to the line. It will also focus down to 18 inches. This lens has all the qualities of the NIKKOR f/2 described above and, in addition, it is faster and has 7 elements. It fills the needs of amateur or professional photographers who want speed. It can be used for fast shutter speed in artificial light, such as night club pictures, press, theater or any shot where lighting conditions are not favorable. Its aperture is equipped with click stops that may be set through feeling when photographing under adverse lighting condition. At full aper­ ture the lens is extremely accurate and, of course, the sharpness and depth of focus increase as it is stopped down. W e believe this lens has as great a speed and as fine resolving power as any lens now offered to the photographer. The lens is also excellent for general, all-around photographic purposes.

28 NIKKOR 35 mm f/3.5 WIDE ANGLE LENS

This lens is a highly precision-ground lens with a much shorter focal length than the standard 50 mm lens. It takes in a much wider field (as indicated in Illust. on page 27) The angle of field is 30% greater. Photographers use this lens where the distance between subject and camera is limited and insufficient to show the en­ tire desired subject on the negative. It is excellent for photographing tall buildings or large groups. With such a short focal length lens the depth of field covers a comparatively wide field at fairly wide apertures. For example, with an opening of f/ 6.3 focused at 23 feet, sharp focus may be obtained on objects from about 10 feet to infinity This is a universal setting and quick shots can be taken easily when shooting subjects where stopping to focus would be inconvenient. This setting is used for any scene where time does not permit refocusing and resetting of the aperture before each shot. It is especially important to use the universal viewfinder with this lens (Illust. 9) NIKKOR 85 mm f/2 TELEPHOTO LENS This all-purpose, long focal length lens is especially suited for picture taking in a theater. Its longer focal length permits distance shots where a subject would be very small if taken with the standard 50 mm lens. It produces a fairly large image at a considerable distance. Its high speed of f/ 2 permits short exposures under poor lighting conditions and where the use of flash bulbs is taboo. This lens is excellent as a portrait lens , when opened to its full aperture it produces a pleasing softness. Even distri- bution of light over the entire negative, and fine definition make this lens out­ standing. The uni­ versal viewfinder should be used with this lens.

29 NIKKOR 135 mm f/3.5 TELEPHOTO LENS

Because of it pecial optical qualifications, this telephoto lens is especiall }' useful to the more serious photographer. Compared to the standard 50 mm lens. it magnification i 2.7 times larger. It has an angle view of about 19 de ree and can be most profitably used for sport scenes, boat race . ere. ta 'en at great distances. It is also excellent for mountain or animal photography and nature shots in general. This lens is especially suited to detailed architectural subjects and very large portrait heads. Its definition is especially good when stopped down. The lens has high color correction and is recommended for distance shots in color. The earlier NIKKOR lenses had a speed of f/ 4 when set at full aperture. The f/ 3.5 is a great improvement for this long focal length lens.

Here again, in order to insure

accurate framing, it is im­

portant to use the Universal

Viewfinder when this lens is

brought into operation.

A tripod must always be used

whenever you use the 135 mm

lens. This lens is too heavy to

be supported by the camero

and, therefore, lens must be

placed on the tripod and the

camero attached to the lens.

30 UNIVERSAL VIEWFINDER-WHEN TO USE

When using the TOWER 35 mm camera with any lenses other than the standard 50 mm lens, the field 9 covered is ei ther greater (as in the case of the wide angle lens) or smaller (as in the case of the 85 111m or 135 mm telephoto lens) To determine the co rrect field of view for those wide angle or telephoto lenses, a special viewfinder 111ust be employed. The Universal Viewfind­ er is especially designed for use with lenses from 35 mm to 135 mm focal length. It can be used with all focal length lenses produced for the TOWER 35 mm camera, and may also be used on the leica with any lenses equivalent to the fol­ lowing NIKKOR lenses

35 mm wide angle lens 85 mm f/2 telephoto lens 50 mm standard f12 or 135 mm f/ 3.5 telephoto lens f/ 1.4 lenses

Universal Viewfinder is calibrated to be used with the 90 mm and 105 111m lenses, as well as the above listed NIKKOR lenses. The Universat Viewfinder attaches to the top of the camera accessory shoe. When this shoe on top of camera is used for another accessory, such as the flashgun, the viewfinder may be attached to camera by means of a clip which fastens to bot­ tom of camera. (Get this clip at any Sears cam­ era department.) The Universal Viewfi nder comes in a brown leather case (Illust. 10)

31 INDEX LINE HOW TO USE

By turning the knurled adjustment ring, the recta ngular aperture or field is enlarged or reduced in size to show the image covered with any of the above lenses. The adjust­ ment rin ( Illust. 11) bears an indicator mJ. r :~. commonly called index line, which mu t be set opposite the proper focal length fo r lens in use. Adjacent to the longer or ma in index line is a shorter index line. The long line is used for distances 30 feet to infinity The sherter line is used for close-up pictures from 3.5 to 6 feet. For distances between 6 and 30 feet, the knurled adjustment ring is set between the two lines at the desired focal length of the lens being employed.

The Universal Viewfinder is equipped with a knurled adjusting lever ( Illust. 12) which is calibrated from 3.5 feet to infinity This also has an index line just above the cali­ brated ring. The distance from the subject shculd be set opposite the index line. The employment of this so-called parallax ad­ justment insures that an object sighted through the vi ewfinder and appearing in the center of the desired picture will actually be photographed in the center of the picture. This accessory prevents the cutting off of heads, or leaving out of pertinent parts of a picture. It should be pointed out that there is little chance of cropping off portions of des ired images when the dis­ tance from the object to camera is over 12 feet. However, the above compensaticn is necessary to avoid such cropping when taking pictures closer than 12 feet. The viewfinder works the same either on top or bottom of camera.

32 FEATURE OF VIEWFINDER

The new Universal Viewfinder is built on the principle of a small peri­ scope. The vision does not go directly through the viewfinder, but the eyepiece is located beneath the direct line of vision. Unlike the earlier viewfinders, the new viewfinder shows the image rightside up and exactly as you would see it with the naked eye, except the image is in miniature. Viewing the image exactly as it is, obviously is a great advantage especially when following moving objects.

The Universal Viewfinder is a must when using any of the NIKKOR lenses other than the standard 50 mm f/2 or f/1.4 lenses.

PARALLAX

The term parallax refers to the adjustment that is made

between the scene viewed through the viewfinder and that seen in the camera lens. Because the viewfinder may

be higher or lower than the camera lens, compensation

must be made for this difference. In focusing at a distance

of 12 feet or less, the viewfinder can be tipped up or down

to correlate with the camera lens, so the actual picture

will not be chopped off at top or bottom .

33 COMPARATIVE FIELD COVERED BY VARIOUS FOCAL LENGTH LENSES As Seen Through The Universal Viewfinder

50

35 34 CAMERA CARRYING CASE

Although the carrying case for the TOWER 35 mm Camera is actually an integral part of the camera, it is considered an ac­ cessory This case is the ever­ ready type-that is, the camera can be used, and all adjustments made, without removing camera from case (Illust. 13)

A snap button on the front permits the frontal piece to drop down. The camera is held in the carrying case by a tripod screw The neck strap can be adjusted to any desired length. ALWAYS keep the neck strap around your neck to eliminate the possibility of dropping your camera.

The case is made of fine russet­ brown cowhide, lined at top and bottom with plush or velvet.

CLOSED OPEN

35 TOWER LENS SHADE AND FILTER HOLDER

TO ER ha produced a new adapter ring with retaining ring and lens shade. This filter holder will accommodate any regular Series VI filters (TO\ ER. EA T fA , etc.) This unit permits use of the fi lter alone. and or with the lens shade, which screws eas ily onto the adapter ring. (ee Illust. below)

Your fine new TOWER 35 mm Camera is extremely versatile. It may be used with a wide variety of special accessories '10 enable you TO take any type of picture you desire. Consult Sears general cataiogs or visit the camera departmznt of any large Sears store for additional accessories not mzntioned in this booklet.

Each part of your TOWER Camera has been made with microscopic precision. Special instruments have been made '10 check and repair working parts of the camera. Sears has established a special repair service with adequate parts and " know-how" for the TOWER 35 mm camera. If your camera needs repair, return it to the store from which you purchased it. If this repair is with.in the terms of the guaran­ tee, return certificate fully filled out with camera, and repair will be free of charge.

36 Your TOWER 35 mm Camera is Guaranteed!

1 - Year Guarantee . r ~~~?f R .

WE GUARANTEE the TOWER 35 mm Camera to be free from defects in mate­ f'... rial and workmanship for a period of C") one year from da te of sale. a ~ o\ize any person or rep· Should this TOWER 35 mm Camer to ~ any other guarantee prove defective during the guarantee' r us any liability in con­ period, return it with th is certi~ ully ection ~ the sale of TOWER 35 mm filled out, to the store from ~ i ct1N t : mera other than those contained .' purchased and we w.iJ.1 repai in . An y agree ments outside of or charge. contradictory to the foregoing shall be vo id and of no effect. ' Th is guarantee covers only TOWER 35' mm Cameras sold in the United States a nd its immediate possessions. DATE ______STORE ______O. SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO. OJ ,. O.